Pendennis Castle

Historic Houses & Building, Industrial Heritage, Visitor Centres, Historic Sites & Monuments

Cornwall's greatest fortress

Pendennis Castle is Cornwall's greatest fortress. Spectacularly located on the headland at Falmouth, it has protected Britain's shores from attack for 450 years. See the complete history of Pendennis revealed in the hands-on discovery Centre and explore the restored underground defences. Descending through the tunnels you will see the coastal defence `big guns' of the Half Moon Battery, which were active throughout WWII warning off any `unwanted guests' within a 20 mile radius of the shore. Entering the restored WWII Battery Operations Post you can experience the activity as the the alert sounds warning of an impending enemy attack. Experience Garrison Life at the turn of the century. Characters from Pendennis' past return to `haunt' the underground barracks, complete with sounds and smells! Besides this there is the restored WWI guard- house complete with cells and the mighty 15th century keep to explore, with a complete Tudor gun-deck, where you can experience the sights and sounds of battle. From the Henry VIII fortress to the secret WWII base, all the family will be able to enjoy fascinating history, secrets revealed, exciting events and the best views in Falmouth which makes Pendennis Castle the ideal venue for a great day out for all ages. OPENING TIMES SUMMER: 1 April - 31 October Daily: 10am - 6pm (5pm in October). July & August opens 9am. WINTER : November - 31 March Daily: 10am - 4pm (Closed 24 - 26 Dec & 1 Jan)